DexCom has developed a continuous glucose monitoring ("CGM") system that could be the next generation of aggressive control. The DexCom GCM is a device that measures glucose trends throughout the day, providing up to 288 glucose measurements every 24 hours.

A traditional glucose monitoring test -like finger sticks - leave gaps in time where you are uncertain as to your blood sugar reading. Continuous monitoring is different from traditional blood glucose monitoring because it affords a comprehensive picture of where your blood sugars are throughout the day and night. The trend reveals times throughout the day where your sugar may increase or decrease, as well as how fast it is happening. This trend information together with the glucose value shows you patterns and problems that traditional finger sticks cannot cover as thoroughly. CGM allows you to set a target range for your desired glucose. When your glucose goes above or below this range, an alert automatically lets you know.

A 2006 study showed that people who used this device were able to achieve a 23% decrease in time spent high and a 21% decrease in time spent low. After speaking with Dianne on the DexCom customer support line - she advised me that they are offering a $375 startup kit that has everything you need to get going. The Rechargeable STS Receiver has a sleek rounded design that can easily be carried with the carry case on both your belt or in a handbag. The STS Transmitter is lightweight and fits comfortably underneath clothing. The STS Sensor & Applicator is easy to insert and safe to use with no visible needles or exposed sharps. With this wireless system, no cables or wires will get in your way allowing you to Take Control and Live Uninterrupted.. Each sensor lasts for 3 days. A set of 5 sensors costs $175 and will last you approximately 15 days.

The annual cost of continuous glucose monitoring averages a ballpark figure of $4,258. Okay, sounds a little steep - but lean on Uncle Sam to offset the cost of the best control. Sounds like it might be time to open up a Flexible Spending Account and write-off the yearning for glucose precision.

The Children with Diabetes Quilt for Life is an ongoing project devoted to the people living with diabetes. The quilt was the idea of Jeff Hitchcock, founder of Children with Diabetes. CWD is a company that promotes understanding of the care and treatment of diabetes, especially in children. The idea was quickly adopted by the many families that participate in online support through the Children with Diabetes web site.

For many, diabetes is about numbers. For those who have contributed to the Quilt for Life, diabetes is about them. In the Quilt for Life, diabetes is transformed from the impersonal to the personal, from the abstract world of numbers to the real world of children living everyday with finger sticks and insulin injections. Each square on the quilt comes with a story, a face, and a family that is affected by diabetes. Each of the quilt squares represents someone with diabetes, someone who hopes for a cure. The Quilt for Life is shown at all Children with Diabetes Friends for Life conferences. You too can participate! After you've completed your quilt square, fill in the Quilt Submission Form and send it with your quilt to the address shown on the form. It's that easy!

The Children with Diabetes Quilt for Life has created a national buzz. It was displayed at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on June 8, 2006. The Quilt for Life displayed at the same time the 2006 American Diabetes Association Call to Congress and the 66th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association occurred. The Call to Congress is the ADA's premier lobbying day, during which Diabetes Advocates from across the country meet with their elected officials in Washington, DC to discuss diabetes issues. CWD and the ADA are working together on several fronts, all aimed at helping families who have kids with diabetes.